Tuesday of Holy Week
The difference between what we are called to be and what we actually are can be pretty stark sometimes. In the first reading, we heard what might sound like a coach’s pep talk before a big game. “It’s not enough for you to be my servant. I will make you a light to the nations!” Then in the second reading, Jesus predicts Peter will deny that he even knows our lord, not once, but three times. Peter, the first Pope, leader of the Church, which is a light to the nations! Whose idea was it to put him in charge?
As we all know, it was Jesus’ idea, and it seems to have worked out just fine. The same is true for you and I. We have been asked to be a light to all people: that annoying co-worker or neighbor or family member, our political opposites, and even the good, kind, but un-churched friends we have. Us, the people who can’t even keep our Lenten observances, are going to be the light of the world to them! Whose idea was it to give us this vocation?
It was God’s idea, and it will work out just fine. Grace is present for us. It can overflow into the lives of the people around us, if we just open ourselves to the Spirit’s presence. Jesus’s Love compels us, especially on this Holy Week, to set our comfortable routine aside and risk the encounter with “the nations;” the people in your life who you may not understand, but can definitely benefit from your care and compassion. The Holy Spirit is eager to show you the right actions and words this day for the benefit of your neighbor.
Jesus knew just how Peter would fail, but He gave him a mission anyway. As a wise person once said, “God doesn’t call the equipped. He equips those He calls.” When I feel like I am failing, like I have “uselessly spent my strength,” I know that “my recompense is with my God.” Jesus knew what he was doing when He called you to be a light today and everyday. He believes in you.
—Chris Nieport